Hi there. My friend has a problem. He has a computer running Windows XP SP2, which is connected to the internet (cable). Now his dad wants to connect to the internet too via the aforementioned computer. My friend already bought an extra ethernet card and an ethernet cable, but now we are stumped. We've tried the wizards in My Network Places but there it says we need to connect the two coputers via LPT1 or COM1 or 2. Any ideas? Thanks in advance!

To do what you are trying you need two Ethernet cards in the XP computer and another in the other computer connected via a Cat5 crossover cable. A straight through cable used for connecting a computer to a modem/router will not work. Once you have the two computers connected and the link lights on, run the Internet Connection Wizard and follow the prompts. This will then set up Internet Connection Sharing on the XP computer. Stuart

IMHO, a router comes in handy for situation like this. As long as both PC is ethernet-ready, you and your dad will be much safer behind the firewall built-in the router. i_XpUser

I agree, a router, although a little more expensive, is the simpler and more reliable solution. Stuart

Thanks for the fast replies! Actually, my friend already has two ethernet cards in his puter, that's what that extra one he bought was for. I'll have to check whether the cable he bought was crossover or not, though.

Look here for advices on how to tell the difference (straight-through and cross-over). i_XpUser

heres the thing with running the crossover to get internet.. Your dads computer will get slow internet.. the computer that is connected to the net not will start to lag when hes on. Plug that computer will always have to be turned on and connected for your dad to get the internet.. Highly recommend that you buy yourself a router. You buy them new for about 40-60 bucks. cheaper if you price Ebay. This way you will share the connection without slowing down your computer.